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Thursday, December 29, 2011

We’ve reached the end of the year, and just about the end of the Chains of Silver release tour. Events and guest blogs jam-pack this final week.Many of these stops offer contests, from copies from my backlist to gift certificates and more.

After booking with Bewitching Book Tours, I’ve been fortunate to discover a great many new book-related blogs. Talking about my first experience with The Green Fairy, absinthe in New Orleans, and how it features in my first m/m novella The Vampire & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas.

On Friday, I’ll be guest posting on “A Naughty New Year’s Eve.” Whipped Cream Reviews is wrapping up their Stuff Your Stocking with Books Blogfest, and each post has contests.

Coming up! New Year’s Blog Hop!

On Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, I’ll be taking part in a major Bog Hop with lots of good prizes! At last count, I think we have 65 authors and reviewers. We’ll be talking about our favorite New Year Memory!

What does that mean for you? Well we are giving away gift cards, books and other swag goodies throughout the day! Each author will choose their own winner - so that means more than 50 winners! And you can win on multiple pages!

And the best thing? We have TWO Grand prizes.

One being a Kindle Fire to a lucky winner!

Our second grand prize is a $80 Amazon GC!

So that’s the *basic* wrap-up for the end of the year. Today, I head out camping for the holiday weekend, but I will be checking in and saying hello.

Friday, December 23, 2011

We've got a special treat today. Author Nancy Lennea takes a few moments to give insight into her process and varied background, plus offers up a unique contest of a emergency kit!

Louisa asked me to answer a few questions about myself, and my latest release, LOVE TO THE RESCUE. Thank you for having me here today.

Louisa- It's a pleasure. First, let's talk about you a little. Do you have people in your life supporting you as a writer?

Nancy- Do you mean monetarily? (laughs) My husband continues to work ‘out in the real world’ so I can write fulltime. My family members are great supporters. My mother, a grammar and spelling whiz, is one of several people who edit all my books. So far, no one in the family is embarrassed that I write ‘romance’.

Nancy (right) transferring snowmobile
accident victim to helicopter.

Louisa- Give us a random fact or two about yourself, something that might surprise your readers.

Nancy- Are you sure you want to know? Well, I should keep a FEW secrets, but I am proud that I have volunteered to help others for many, many years. From hospital candy striper, to Girl Scout, to Cub Scout Leader, to EMT and firefighter, I feel that even though I have never been wealthy, moneywise, I give of my time. Time is a commodity valuable to those in need. In addition, it feels good!

Louisa- Do you have a writing mentor? Do you mentor anyone?

Nancy- My writing really took off after I moved to North Carolina (from New Hampshire) about 4 years ago and joined the local chapter of Romance Writers of America. I have never seen so many New York Times best sellers in one room! I listened and learned. Once published, I started to pay-it-forward. I am stepping down next month as Vice President of my local chapter, but I will fill my time elsewhere, helping another writing group.

Louisa- I totally understand about the supportive network of a local RWA chapter. I get that with OCC/RWA. What do you want your readers to feel when they read your books?

Nancy- I feel that a complex relationship, maybe a few secrets, an insurmountable, obstacle, and a few laughs makes for a good story. I believe I accomplished that in both DESTINY’S MOUNTAIN and the continuing mountain sage from Red Rose Publishing, LOVE TO THE RESCUE.

Louisa- Is there anything unusual about your writing habits?

Nancy- Yes. I cannot believe I can be creative surrounded by chaos! There are papers strew everywhere, binders, three computers, and a cat that knocks everything to the floor. Yes, I keep very busy. Once a book is ‘finished’, off it goes to people I trust to edit it. I want it polished until it shines. Once I send a completed manuscript off to an agent or editor, I start the next book. Currently, I have two completed manuscripts out, and am nearly finished with a novella I will self-publish, and I have a series already started. Keeping everything straight is a job and a half.

Louisa- Wow. That definitely sounds like a handful. With everything you have going, and the holidays, thanks for being here today.

Nancy- My pleasure! Now, back to writing.

BOOK BLURB

The clashing relationship between tomboy Josie Miller and fellow paramedic-firefighter, Pete Thayer, escalates after he realizes Joe is not just one-of-the-boys. Pete has a sketchy history and has earned a reputation for one-night stands in the small town of Parmenter, New Hampshire nestled between the Mercy River, the mountains, and the state college. Since he arrived a year ago, Josie suspects he is hiding something. Something too horrible to share, even with her. Working side by side, Joe loves her job, and Pete.

They respond to accident calls, medical emergencies, and fast-moving forest fires amid sparks of another kind. Joe’s clumsiness and baggy uniform work against her when she yearns to be the kind of woman Pete wants like the pretty blonde they must rescue after her car hits a moose.

Outside influences come to play when the sister of Pete’s alleged victim shows up and accuses him of something even worse…her sister’s recent death. Once on track to be a doctor, the sister’s betrayal and lies caused Pete to run far away and keep women at a distance unless they agreed to share his bed…and nothing more.

Pete plans to skip town while Josie worries she has given her heart to a monster. His boss and the local police back off and he professes his innocence to Joe. After kissing her senseless, she lets him into her bed until her bothers intervene. Both keep an eye on Pete. A suicide note, some well-landed fists, stolen moments of love, and a desire to listen to their hearts lead these two heroes toward a climax filled with tension, pain, bloodshed, and atonement.

EXCERPT

“Anything that woman has to say is full of spite and lies. I don’t want to hear a word!” he yelled. His entire body shook with anger. Fear, evident in her too–pale face, made him pause. Pete turned away from her scrutiny and paced. The camper’s size hampered his movements, adding to his growing agitation. He stopped in front of her, lifted her to her feet, and held her close. He had planned to shake some sense into her when he noticed her face flushed a pretty pink and her body trembled under his touch. From lust, not fright.

What the hell?

Her scent, intoxicating as fresh–cut flowers in spring, filled his nostrils and made his head spin with the sudden sweetness. The pale skin of her neck beckoned him, the pulse just beneath the surface beating fast and strong. Her lips parted in response to his gaze. With an urge so strong his knees weakened, he kissed the gentle slope below her chin then slid up and captured both lips.

The kiss deepened, spurred on by a force screaming at him to take everything. She tasted sweet and spicy, of sugar and bitter coffee. He sucked her tongue and groaned with the pleasure of her particular taste. This isn’t right.

Some mysterious voice screamed in his head, but he ignored the warning. His hands roamed to her back before sliding lower. Each fingertip tingled with intense pleasure. Lower, still, his hands cupped her strong buttocks. One hand slid up to nestle against the nape of her neck. Her body squirmed, moving in increasing velocity to connect with his stomach, thighs, and groin.

“Easy, sweetheart, or this will be over before it’s begun.” Locked in his embrace, she kissed him in response. Agony, like a punch to the gut, made him realize whom he kissed.

He responded as if slapped.

Breaking the kiss, he backed away and gulped air. Oppressive heat surrounded them. His sweat–soaked shirt clung to his back and his shorts had grown painfully tight. Tepid air weighed heavy in his parched lungs.

Joe sucked in air and stood transfixed. Her eyes widened.

Both fists lay against his sides, clenched as tightly as his jaw. “That should never have happened.”

“Are you mad at me?”

“I am not mad at you, Joe. Do your lovers kiss you to show their anger?”

“Unfair question. Are you upset I’m friends with Sherri Barrington?”

Speechless at her repeated referrals to the Barrington girl, he glared at her. Slow as molten steel, he forced his gaze to drift to her breasts. Her chest heaved up and down. A shy grin crinkled her mouth until the smile spread across her face. Bolstered by her reaction, he raised a hand to the silken nape of her neck and drew her into his arms once more. His own lips curved upwards when her skin pulsed under his brazen fingertips. He nuzzled her neck, inhaling her sweet fragrance.

“I love how you smell.” He caressed a breast and she moaned. Pushing off him, she broke contact and stepped back. His brow lowered, but he kept quiet.

“This is a mistake, but I might as well take a chance or forever kick my own butt for not finding out.”

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Before there were three, there were two. When a vampire swoops in to save Trevor from a rogue gang’s blood sport, the werewolf must fight his own inhibitions. The magic of New Orleans and the holiday season bring together these two unlikely lovers.

“In her first foray into the m/m genre, Ms. Bacio sets the pages ablaze in this sexy Christmas tale featuring two irresistible characters from her The Vampire, The Witch & The Werewolf series. There’s nothing better on a cold winter’s night than cozying up with the vampire and the werewolf as they come together in this sizzling story. This is my Christmas present to myself.”

Rebecca Leigh, author of Dirty Housewives

__________________________________________________

The Vampire & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas

Readers asked, and I listened ... Come see how the magic sparked between Lawrence and Trevor, in this very special holiday novella! Available now via Ravenous Romance.

Friday, December 16, 2011

Are you ready to do some hopping this weekend? I’ve gotten together with some other amazing writers … and we’re offering up some super-cool prizes, including a combined $450 in gift cards to various establishments. To check out the participating authors, check out the Stuff Your Stockings Event Page.

What? Do you want more? I believe in double-dipping! I'm also taking part in a second hop this weekend. Yep! You got it: TWO. More prizes are available through the Bookin' It Reviews Christmas Book Bash.

What’s up for grabs here? Well, how about a $10 gift card to my publisher Ravenous Romance, and a .pdf copy from my backlist! To enter, please leave a comment with one Christmas wish, and your email address so you can be contacted.

Thinking about my Christmas wish got me all teary eyed. I wondered, when did I stop making wishes for myself and start hoping for a good future for my daughters? Right now they are nine and almost five. Two amazing girls, and my wish is for good health and a happy life for both of them.

So, how about you?

And talking about those holidays, and time of reflection, here’s a teaser on an upcoming release!

Prequel: The Vampire & The Werewolf: A New Orleans Christmas

COMING SOON!

Vampires and werewolves don’t mix … or do they?

Before there were three, there were two. When a vampire swoops in to save Trevor from a rogue gang’s blood sport, the werewolf must fight his own inhibitions. The magic of New Orleans and the holiday season bring together these two unlikely lovers.

Given that I write a lot of m/m erotic romance, mentioning coconuts may make you smile coyly. You know what I’m talking about, and it isn’t the round milk filled nut/fruit/seed that grows on top of a coconut tree.

Do you know what I mean now? Perhaps a few more pictures to spur your imagination?

I think you’ve got it now.

No, I’ve never used the word “coconut” in one of my stories – but I wonder how that would go? Paul cupped the other man’s coconuts and squeezed tight enough to make his lover whimper in ecstasy.

Okay, okay, so there’s a reason I’ve never used this particular euphemism. It was a fun way to see a few pics of some very hot guys – all of which represent the men in some of my recent and upcoming releases.

Where do palm trees come in? You’re guess is as good as mine, except that I do live in Paradise, USA – home of swaying palms, warm trade winds, and coconuts of all sorts!

I know that in many places it is starting to get colder and even snow. So, in these days before the holidays I leave you with a Christmas wish. I wish all of my readers a safe season full of friends, family, and just the right kind of coconut!

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

When I threw down the guest post gauntlet to Lani Rhea & JP Archer, authors of "The Ark Hotel: Before the Dawn" in The Sexiest Time of the Year anthology, who knew how they'd rise to the challenge.

Hi Louisa! We just wanted to say thanks for having us today. We’ve been blogging our butts off recently, but it’s been so much fun. Your question about keeping sex and romance alive during the holidays was very intriguing so we decided to answer you in true Christmas spirit. Here we go….

The Twelve Days of Sexmas (Erotic Romance style)

On the first day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, massage oil from a pear tree.

On the second day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the third day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the fourth day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, four phone sex calls, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the fifth day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, five bondage rings, four phone sex calls, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the sixth day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, six candles burning, five bondage rings, four phone sex calls, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the seventh day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, seven sexy spankings, six candles burning, five bondage rings, four phone sex calls, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the eighth day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, eight bras with panties, seven sexy spankings, six candles burning, five bondage rings, four phone sex calls, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the ninth day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, nine dildos humming, eight bras with panties, seven sexy spankings, six candles burning, five bondage rings, four phone sex calls, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the tenth day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, ten voyeurs watching, nine dildos humming, eight bras with panties, seven sexy spankings, six candles burning, five bondage rings, four phone sex calls, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

On the eleventh day of Sexmas my true love gave to me, eleven erotic dances, ten voyeurs watching, nine dildos humming, eight bras with panties, seven sexy spankings, six candles burning, five bondage rings, four phone sex calls, three French kisses, two nipple tweaks and massage oil from a pear tree.

Lani Rhea and JP Archer are two women living in the heart of Oklahoma carrying out their dream. They write in the paranormal and contemporary erotic romance genre. You can find them either reading or writing. They’d love to hear from you. Email them at rheaarcherbooks@gmail.com.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

There’s nothing yummier than a hot guy on a cold night. I for one wouldn’t mind curling up with Rhys, the hero in my new release, Shield of Fire. He’s gorgeous, and protects humans from demons. Add the fact that he’s over 300 years old and you’ve got yourself a wholelota experience, if you know what I mean. (wink—wink, elbow to the ribs)

Rhys has baggage, but not the debilitating kind. I’ll leave that for Icarus, my luscious and deadly demon. Being the last full-blooded Bringer has given Rhys a hero complex, which keeps him distanced from the ladies. Well, until he meets Ravyn. I won’t say their soul mates, but they certainly clicked.

Always trying to be a gentleman, Rhys is pushed to the limit by Ravyn’s antics. How much is one man supposed to take? Especially from a woman who is a lot like him. You can’t blame Rhys for hoping Ravyn is also a full-blooded Bringer, somebody he could love, fight demons and possibly grow old with. He’s a romantic at heart and in the case of Ravyn, he falls hard. (But not in a whimpy—I want to crush his skull kind of way).

I’d like to share bit from chapter seventeen. Usually I don’t give excerpts from this part of the book. You know, the whole give the milk away for free concept, but I’m feeling generous today.

He slid down her body and once again settled on his knees. Determination to pleasure her swelled. His fingers spread her lips and Ravyn opened to him. Encouraging. Trusting.

He tongued and teased her back to her euphoric state. The beast roared for its mate, and Rhys struggled not to give into the demands he so desperately wanted to surrender to.

Ravyn pushed against his tongue, wanting more of what he gave her. He felt her body tighten. His hands caressed the inside of her thighs and his tongue lapped and drank her in. She burrowed her fingers into his hair and bucked against his mouth. Sweet Sainted Ones, he’d never wanted to pleasure a woman as he did now.

Sorry, just a tease. I’ll say this, Rhys and Ravyn are just getting started. Hope you enjoyed it.

SHIELD OF FIRE Blub

Protecting humans is the Bringers’ duty.Sending demons to the Shadow World is their pleasure.

In one night, Ravyn’s life plunges from barely tolerable to deadly. Forced to flee the only home she’s known, she stumbles headlong into the clutches of Icarus, a powerful demon intent on stealing her powers. Unfortunately for him, she has no intention of cooperating.

When Rhys realizes the woman he’s rescued from the Bane Demon is no mere human, his obligation as a Bringer dictates he protect and train her in the ways of his people. But he’s unprepared for the intense desire he feels for the fiery Ravyn. To surrender to his need may mean her death.

As the Demon King’s desire for ultimate power escalates, fathers are slated against sons, and foes are made allies. The Bane threat upon them, Rhys and Ravyn must quest to unite the last of the Bringers—and explore a passion too powerful to ignore.

Boone has lived in the beautiful state of Alaska for nearly two decades. She spent many of those years in the bush, where the internet and flush toilets were a luxury. Boone’s motto? “Have laptop, will travel.” It’s not uncommon to see her pounding away at her computer during camping trips, fishing expeditions, or in their family plane as they fly over the open tundra.

She’s won several awards for her writing and serves as the Alaska Chapter president for Romance Writers of America.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Ready to snuggle into bed with a comfy read? Oh, man, what a guilty pleasure that is, and one that I don’t get to do very often these days. Visiting My Need to Read this weekend, and offering a tasty giveaway of Twilight Sweethearts!

Come stop by, say hello and click on the entry form for a chance at winning.

Friday, December 9, 2011

Joining me today is multi-published author, Nancy Lee Badger, whose latest e-book release, DRAGON IN THE MIST, is set in Scotland on Loch Ness. Nancy has promised to explain her title choice, and why she chose this location. (And check out the contest that Nancy's holding for that fantastic window sticker. I WANT it!)

Thanks for having me today. I have wanted to explain the story behind the title since I released DRAGON IN THE MIST in August. This is the perfect opportunity. First of all, I love dragons. Scottish mythology is full of them. Who knew? I discovered this while researching Scotland for my first Scottish paranormal, DRAGON’S CURSE. There are pages and pages of information on dragons that supposedly lived in a variety of places. I read about a very famous myth concerning the Loch Ness Monster that goes like this:

When Saint Columba traveled through the country of the Picts, he had to cross the River Ness.* He came across Picts burying a man said to have been bitten by the water-monster. Not a stupid man, Columba ordered one of his men to swim across and return with a boat. The chosen man, Lugneus Mocumin swam off, but the monster saw him and charged. All on shore stood in horror except Columba, who raised his holy hand and inscribed the Cross in the air. He called upon the name of God and commanded the beast, saying, “Go no further! Do not touch the man! Go back at once!” The monster drew back, retreating to the depths of the Loch. Unharmed, Lugneus brought the boat back. Everyone was astonished. The heathen savages who witnessed the miracle were overcome and came to know the magnificence of the God of the Christians.

The Loch Ness Monster in mythology is described as a wingless, serpentine-like dragon. I made my dragon female and gave her the ability to walk the shores of Loch Ness in human form due to a gift from a Faerie Queen. When writing fiction, an author has loads of leeway and paranormal writers can stretch the limits with world-building. I like to make sure my books are set in real locations. This was easy to do with Loch Ness.

Castle Urquhart on Loch Ness

My book’s first chapter depicts my heroine’s horrible outcome when she gives her heart to a human male. When he reveals he is already married, Nessía returns to her watery home after cursing the man’s entire clan. In present day, she again tries to find love. She meets Rory Hawthorn, an American geologist, when he walks inside the pub where she works. He has a secret, and Nessía is not going to like it.

Mist, in my title, is in reference to the thick porridge-like fog that blankets the loch—and a huge part of Scotland—most mornings. I think mist is very sexy. I do not know why, I just do. These are the reasons why I chose to title my book DRAGON IN THE MIST. I hope you will buy a copy, give a copy, lend a copy…whatever. Enjoy my tale of love, fantasy, and Scotland.

BOOK BLURB

Life without love is not worth living.

Nessía of the Loch has lived beneath the murky water of Loch Ness since ancient times. The pain of loneliness manifests in anger so strong, the entire valley shakes with earthquakes. In 1816, a Faerie queen pleads for her to cease the tremors and rewards Nessía with a human form. To stay human, she must find love. When the man she believes she loves casts her aside, Nessía responds to the betrayal by cursing the men of the MacDonald clan with the inability to keep a woman’s love. Only an act of true selflessness will break the curse.

After centuries pass, Nessía again searches for love. When Rory Hawthorn, an American scientist, arrives under the pretext of researching the earthquakes but in reality to research his MacDonald heritage and the curse, she believes she has found the perfect mate.

Amid stolen kisses, another earthquake, a steamy night of passion, and a broken heart, Nessía returns to the murky depths of the loch. When Rory dives in to follow her, he meets the green, scaly Loch Ness Monster. Assuming Nessía is in danger, he is intent on killing the monster and saving the woman he loves.

EXCERPT

Nessía wiped her hands, turned off the dining area’s lights, and stood at the open door. Staring at the loch, she crossed her arms to brave the cool breeze, then leaned against the doorjamb. Unwanted memories rose of the last time she lived in human form. A sigh escaped, the only sound other than footsteps on the gravel parking lot.

“Such a meaning-filled sigh. Anything I can do?”

The American—Rory—walked out of the dark like a Highland wolf of old. He stopped inches from her and she had to lean to the side to discern if he arrived alone.

“Kendra and Suzie? They went back to the B&B to…rest up. For tomorrow.”

“Urquhart Castle. You mentioned ye planned to visit the place. Great views of the loch, I hear tell.”

“What? A local and you’ve never walked the grounds?” Inches away, Rory raised an arm, then laid a palm against the doorjamb.

Directly over her head.

“I have seen it from the water. I do not care to trip over its ruins. But, have fun with the kids.” Nessía backed up, planning to lock the door, but his hand slid down to her shoulder.

“Don’t go,” Rory whispered.

His voice, as familiar as Monty’s sultry tone from long ago, made her hesitate a moment too long. Rory’s handsome face lowered until his lips brushed across her mouth. As his other hand gripped her waist, pinpoints of light followed the feathery sweep of his soft lips. A halo of desire, thick as morning mist, tangled around their bodies, and joined them as one. Had he noticed?

About the Author

Nancy loves chocolate-chip shortbread, wool plaids wrapped around the trim waist of a Scottish Highlander, the clang of dirks and broadswords, and the sound of bagpipes in the air. Nancy lives the dream. After growing up in Huntington, New York, and raising two handsome sons in New Hampshire, Nancy moved to North Carolina where she writes full-time. She and her family continue to volunteer at the New Hampshire Highland Games each fall. Nancy is a member of RWA, Heart of Carolina Romance Writers, Sisters In Crime, FF&P Romance Writers, and the Celtic Heart Romance Writers. Nancy is a proud Army Mom, and she also writes romantic suspense as Nancy Lennea.

One lucky person will win a fabulous prize and the only requirement is that you must leave a comment. The prize? A beautiful, full color, double-sided window sticker of two Celtic dragons. Remember, you must leave a comment TODAY!